September 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Namibian Dolphin Project - Volunteer positions available immediately Oct-Nov 2018
by Simon Elwen 09 Sep '18

09 Sep '18

The Namibian Dolphin Project is a research and conservation organisation based in Walvis Bay, Namibia which has been running for over 10 years. We currently have openings for 2 long-term volunteers for the period 01 Oct to 30 Nov 2018. As an integral part of a small team working with the Field Officer - this is a very hands on experience and a great way to get a wide range of field experience. Volunteers will be directly involved in day to day activities of the research station including on-going field work including small-boat and opportunistic surveys, land-based dolphin surveys, seal entanglement monitoring, hydrophone deployments and recovery, and attendance at post mortem examinations of stranded cetaceans or turtles that may occur. Additionally, volunteers will be involved in data input and processing, public outreach and equipment maintenance. The Namibian Dolphin Project is part of the Sea Search Research and Conservation group, a registered non profit. We request that volunteers pay a financial contribution to cover accommodation, food and training. Accommodation is in shared housing at the NDP Field station. Please contact info(a)seasearch.co.za with a CV and brief motivation. Wore information available on our website here: http://www.namibiandolphinproject.org/get-involved/volunteer-internship-pro… Regards, Dr Simon Elwen Director: Namibian Dolphin Project -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Simon Elwen Ph.D. NRF Research Fellow at the Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria Based at Sea Search Africa - 4 Bath Rd, Muizenberg, Cape Town. Phone: +27 21 788 1206 (Office SA), +27 71 139 5951 (Mob SA) www.seasearch.co.za & www.namibiandolphinproject.org The first *African Bioacoustics Community conference will be held in Cape Town on the **3rd-7th December 2018*. https://www.facebook.com/africanbioacousticscommunity/

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Call for Marine Mammal Research Interns in Kep, Cambodia.
by Sarah Tubbs 09 Sep '18

09 Sep '18

Call for Marine Mammal Research Interns in Kep, Cambodia. Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) is an NGO based on the island of Koh Ach Seh, in Cambodia's Kep Archipelago. The organisation has many facets, including working to stop illegal fishing practices, ecological and social science research and collecting data to use in the implementation of conservation legislation. In September 2017, MCC introduced *The Cambodian Marine Mammal Conservation Project,* in collaboration with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration. The project's primary aim is to collect data on abundance, distribution and residency to delineate and protect critical habitats for the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin in Cambodia's Kep Archipelago. At present, we are looking for marine mammal research interns to join the team. * Project activities: * · a minimum of 3 observational land surveys per week using a Theodolite and Pythagoras software; · a minimum of 1 observational boat survey per week; · photo-identification techniques using Discovery software; · passive acoustic monitoring using a C-POD and CPOD.exe software; · social science techniques; · data entry, processing and analysis; · education and outreach; · running a marine mammal stranding network; · scientific writing for peer-reviewed journals and government reports; · designing marine mammal legislation. *Basic internship training schedule* Session 1: Introduction to MCC and The Cambodian Marine Mammal Conservation Project. Session 2: Research method training on observational land and boat surveying techniques. Session 3: Marine mammal identification and behaviour training. Session 4: Marine vessel identification training. Session 5: Data sheet and data entry training. Session 6: Drone footage analysis training. Session 7: Training feedback and debrief. Session 8: Practice observational land and boat survey. Session 9: Theodolite introduction and training. Session 10: Pythagoras and Theodolite station setting training. You will also become involved in other project related activities, depending on your interest, skill set and length of stay. *Internship requirements:* We are looking for dedicated, motived and hard-working interns, able to commit for a minimum internship period of two months. We are looking for those who will commit to early mornings and late nights, with a keen interest in marine mammals and their conservation. Ideally, we are looking for university students or recent graduates. *Project site description:* The project is based on the island of Koh Ach Seh, a 40-minute boat trip from Kep Town, Cambodia. The island is inhabited only by MCC, a team made up of a mixture of interdisciplinary international and local staff. The accommodation and facilities on the island are basic but well-maintained. You will be in shared and catered accommodation with fellow interns and staff members. All project related resources are provided. *Application process and fees:* There is an internship fee of $300 USD/week for the 1st and 2nd months, $250/week for the 3rd and 4th months, and $200/week for the 5th and 6th months. The fee covers: · all food, water, accommodation; · transport to and from the mainland to the project island; · marine mammal research training; · scuba diving (if qualified); · and the opportunity to get involved in activities and training at MCC, such as seahorse research or artificial reef management. There are limited spaces available, if interested, please send a CV/resume and covering letter, stating your available dates and desired length of stay, to *cambodiadolphinproject(a)gmail.com <cambodiadolphinproject(a)gmail.com> * *Sarah Tubbs* Project Coordinator of 'The Cambodian Dolphin Project', Marine Conservation Cambodia +855 97 642 5886 | cambodiadolphinproject(a)gmail.com https://www.marineconservationcambodia.org/ Create your own email signature <https://www.wisestamp.com/signature-in-email?utm_source=promotion&utm_mediu…>

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New Publication: Spatiotemporal patterns of overlap between short-finned pilot whales and pelgaic longlines off of the US East Coast
by Julia Stepanuk 07 Sep '18

07 Sep '18

Dear MARMAM readers, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following paper in *Fisheries Research*: Stepanuk, JEF; Read, AJ; Baird, RW; Webster, DL; Thorne, LH (2018) Spatiotemporal patterns of overlap between short-finned pilot whales and the U.S. pelagic longline fishery in the Mid-Atlantic Bight: An assessment to inform the management of fisheries bycatch.* Fisheries Research*, 208, 309-320. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2018.07.008. Abstract: Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) depredate pelagic longlines along the shelf break of the Mid-Atlantic Bight. The mortality and serious injury of short-finned pilot whales in the U.S. pelagic longline fishery recently exceeded Potential Biological Removal levels defined under the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act, and bycatch mitigation techniques developed to date have been unsuccessful. We examine the spatial and temporal characteristics of pilot whale habitat use and longline fishing effort, quantify spatiotemporal patterns of pilot whale bycatch based on environmental factors, and assess the potential for a spatial management approach to mitigate pilot whale bycatch. We assess patterns of overlap and bycatch of pilot whales and longlines by applying Area Under the Curve and Williamson’s Spatial Overlap Index analyses to telemetry data from short-finned pilot whales, along with longline fishing effort and Pelagic Observer Program (POP) fisheries observer data from 2014 and 2015. We found that proximity to the 1000 m isobath, season, and sea surface temperature (SST) were important variables influencing pilot whale-longline overlap and POP bycatch rates. Pilot whale density was consistently highest immediately inshore of the 1000 m isobath, but longline effort varied seasonally relative to the 1000 m isobath. Resultant seasonal patterns in pilot whale-longline overlap relative to the 1000 m isobath were strongly and significantly correlated with POP bycatch rates; the highest bycatch rates primarily occurred in fall and winter months, when longline effort shifted inshore near the 1000 m isobath. We observed differences in the distribution of logbook and POP longline sets relative to the 1000 m isobath; POP sets were more dispersed relative to this feature while the overall distribution of longline effort was typically focused at the 1000 m isobath. Since bycatch primarily occurred close to the 1000 m isobath, more bycatch might be observed if the observer effort better reflected the overall distribution of longline effort. In winter months, POP bycatch occurred in cooler waters than most observations of tagged pilot whales, and therefore the relationship between bycatch and SST during winter months requires further exploration. Together, our results suggest that a spatial management approach could be effective in reducing pilot whale bycatch in the pelagic longline fishery, and an improved understanding of the relationships between pilot whale bycatch and dynamic variables might allow high-risk regions for pilot whale bycatch to be further delineated. The paper has 50 days free access at the following link: https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1Xgd8_3nFpNYis Best, Julia -- *Julia Stepanuk* PhD Student M.S. Marine Science Stony Brook University Department of Ecology and Evolution

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Research Internship Opportunity at Dolphin Research Center
by Christina Tilley 07 Sep '18

07 Sep '18

Dolphin Research Center Internships Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is currently accepting applications for Research Interns for the Winter 2019 term (January - April). DRC is a not-for-profit education and research facility, home to a family of dolphins and sea lions. DRC is located on Grassy Key, in the heart of the Florida Keys. Internships at DRC are an exciting way to develop career skills as well as an opportunity to see how a marine mammal facility operates. Research interns participate in DRC's ongoing behavioral, cognitive, and field research projects, giving them broad exposure to a variety of research methodologies. Interns receive extensive on-the-job training in observing marine mammal behavior, collecting observational data, working with research equipment, and assisting with experimental research sessions. Note: conducting your own research projects is not part of this position. Specific job duties include: · Collecting observational behavioral data · Preparing stimuli for cognitive research sessions · Assisting in setting up and breaking down equipment for cognitive and acoustic research sessions · Operating video equipment · Entering or scanning data into the computer for analysis · General support of the facility through participation in the volunteer resource pool (facility maintenance, bird care, assisting with public programs, guest interactions, etc.) Internships require a minimum of a 16-week commitment, 40 hours per week. The internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing. DRC will provide assistance in locating housing and/or matching up interns and volunteers desiring roommates. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior research experience is recommended but not required. The deadline to apply is October 1st. To apply, you must download the application available at www.dolphins.org. Click "Careers", and then "Internships”. It is mandatory that you please provide the following package: - A completed Application Form (including your Internship Preferences in order of choice under Section B) - A current Resume - Transcript (may be unofficial unless you are seeking a credit for your internship) - Two Letters of Recommendation with an original signature. (If currently enrolled in college, one letter must be from your Faculty Advisor) Currently, applications cannot be submitted online. Please send your application, supporting documentation, and any additional information you wish that you feel would be beneficial to us in processing your application by fax to the attention of Volunteer Resource at (305) 743-7627 or by regular mail: Dolphin Research Center Attn: Volunteer Resources Department 58901 Overseas Highway Grassy Key, FL 33050 USA Select publications: King, S.L., Guarino, E., Keaton, L., Erb, L., & Jaakkola, K. (2016). Maternal signature whistle use aids mother-calf reunions in a bottlenose dolphin,Tursiops truncatus. Behavioural Processes, 126, 64-70. King, S. L., Guarino, E., Donegan, K., Hecksher, J., & Jaakkola, K (in press). Further insights into postpatrum signature whistle use in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Marine Mammal Science. Jaakkola, K. (2014). Do animals understand invisible displacement? A critical review. Journal of Comparative Psychology, Vol. 128, No. 3, 225-239. Jaakkola, K., Guarino, E., Rodriguez, M., & Hecksher, J. (2013). Switching strategies: A dolphin's use of passive and active acoustics to imitate motor actions. Animal Cognition, 16, 701-709. Jaakkola, K. (2012). Cetacean cognitive specializations. In J. Vonk & T. Shackleford (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Comparative Evolutionary Psychology (pp. 144–165). New York: Oxford University Press. Jaakkola, K., Guarino, E., & Rodriguez, M. (2010). Blindfolded imitation in a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). International Journal of Comparative Psychology, 23, 671-688. Jaakkola, K., Guarino, E., Rodriguez, M., Erb, L., & Trone, M. (2010). What do dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) understand about hidden objects? Animal Cognition, 13, 103-120. Jaakkola, K., Fellner, W., Erb, L., Rodriguez, A. M., & Guarino, E. (2005). Understanding the concept of numerically “less” by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Comparative Psychology

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New paper on bottlenose dolphin population structure and dispersal
by Milaja Nykänen 07 Sep '18

07 Sep '18

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I'd like to draw your attention to a recently published paper on bottlenose dolphin population structure and dispersal between Marine Protected Areas. Nykänen M, Dillane E, Englund A, Foote AD, Ingram SN, Louis M, Mirimin L, Oudejans M, Rogan E. 2018. Quantifying dispersal between marine protected areas by a highly mobile species, the bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus. Ecology and Evolution doi: 10.1002/ece3.4343 The article is open access and is available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ece3.4343 Abstract The functioning of marine protected areas (MPAs) designated for marine megafauna has been criticized due to the high mobility and dispersal potential of these taxa. However, dispersal within a network of small MPAs can be beneficial as connectivity can result in increased effective population size, maintain genetic diversity, and increase robustness to ecological and environmental changes making populations less susceptible to stochastic genetic and demographic effects (i.e., Allee effect). Here, we use both genetic and photo‐identification methods to quantify gene flow and demographic dispersal between MPAs of a highly mobile marine mammal, the bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus. We identify three populations in the waters of western Ireland, two of which have largely nonoverlapping core coastal home ranges and are each strongly spatially associated with specific MPAs. We find high site fidelity of individuals within each of these two coastal populations to their respective MPA. We also find low levels of demographic dispersal between the populations, but it remains unclear whether any new gametes are exchanged between populations through these migrants (genetic dispersal). The population sampled in the Shannon Estuary has a low estimated effective population size and appears to be genetically isolated. The second coastal population, sampled outside of the Shannon, may be demographically and genetically connected to other coastal subpopulations around the coastal waters of the UK. We therefore recommend that the methods applied here should be used on a broader geographically sampled dataset to better assess this connectivity. Kind regards, Milaja Nykanen -- Dr Milaja Nykanen School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork Cork, Ireland m.nykanen(a)ucc.ie

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Final Call: Training Course - An Introduction To Using GIS/QGIS In Biological Research, 1-2 October 2018
by Colin D. MacLeod 07 Sep '18

07 Sep '18

This is the final call for attendees for our upcoming introductory training course for those who wish to learn how to use GIS in biological research, and it will provide an introduction to using GIS in a wide variety of biological research situations, including marine mammal research, and the course includes two marine-mammal-specific practical exercises (one based around calculating the observed abundance per unit survey effort of dolphins using a grid-based approach, and one based around mapping species richness for North Atlantic beaked whales). It is primmarily based around a GIS software package called QGIS, which is free to use. As a result, it is one of the best options for doing GIS for self-employed MMOs, small environmental consultancies, NGOs, those working on small marine mammal research projects with limited budgets for purchasing software licences and students working at universities who do not have access to commercial GIS software packages. The course will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, on the 1st and 2nd of October 2018, and it will be taught by Dr Colin D. MacLeod, who has more than 15 years experience in using GIS for a wide variety of biological purposes. For those who cannot attend this course in person, a shorter online course based on the same materials is available from our sister site www.GISforBiologists.com. The course will primarily be based around QGIS (also known as Quantum GIS), which provides a user-friendly, open-source, free alternative to commercial GIS software packages, and it is becoming increasingly widely used in both academic and commercial organisations As a result, it is aimed at both those with no GIS experience, but wish to learn how to do GIS with QGIS, and also those who are familiar with using commercial GIS software, such as ArcGIS, but who wish to learn how to use QGIS as an alternative. However, this course is taught using software-independent approach, and it is also open to those who wish to learn how to use ArcGIS to do biological GIS. The practical exercises on this course will be based on those in the recently published GIS For Biologists: A Practical Introduction For Undergraduates by Dr MacLeod, and a free copy of this book will be provided to all participants. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 16 people, and the course will cost £295 per person (£200 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). To book a place, or for more information, visit http://gisinecology.com/an-introduction-to-using-gis-in-biological-research/ or email info(a)GISinEcology.com. Glasgow has great transport links and is within half a days travel by car or by fast train links from most cities in the UK. For example, it can be reached in as little as 4h 30mins from London by train. It can also be reached by direct flights from many European cities and the flight time is generally under four hours. The course will be held in central Glasgow at the IET Glasgow Teacher Building (14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, UK). Attendees will be responsible for their own accommodation. However, Glasgow provides a wide range of accommodation options to fit most budgets. ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology Web: www.GISinEcology.com Email: info(a)GISinEcology.com Need to ask a question about using GIS? Try the GIS In Ecology Forum: www.GISinEcology.com/GIS_in_Ecology_forum.htm Books From GIS In Ecology Staff: GIS For Biologists: A Practical Introduction For Undergraduates; RRP: £24.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology; RRP: £44.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook One - Creating Maps Of Species Distribution; RRP: £19:99 If you wish to purchase these books, visit: http://www.gisinecology.com/Book_Shop.htm To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ================================================================================== --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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New paper: using mobile ADCP surveys to understand pinniped at-sea distribution in turbulent environments
by Lilian Lieber 07 Sep '18

07 Sep '18

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication on fine-scale hydrodynamic forcing underlying pinniped at-sea occupancy patterns in a highly dynamic tidal channel: Lieber L, Nimmo-Smith WAM, Waggitt JJ, Kregting L. (2018) Fine-scale hydrodynamic metrics underlying predator occupancy patterns in tidal stream environments. Ecological Indicators 94, 397–408. doi:10.1016/j.ecolind.2018.06.071. Abstract Whilst the development of the tidal stream industry will help meet marine renewable energy (MRE) targets, the potential impacts on mobile marine predators using these highly dynamic environments need consideration. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) required for potential MRE sites generally involve site-specific animal density estimates obtained from lengthy and costly surveys. Recent studies indicate that whilst large-scale tidal forcing is predictable, local hydrodynamics are variable and often result in spatio-temporal patchiness of marine predators. Therefore, understanding how fine-scale hydrodynamics influence animal distribution patterns could inform the placing of devices to reduce collision and displacement risks. Quantifying distributions requires animal at-sea locations and the concurrent collection of high-resolution hydrodynamic measurements. As the latter are routinely collected during tidal resource characterization at potential MRE sites, there is an untapped opportunity to efficiently collect information on the former to improve EIAs. Here we describe a survey approach that uses vessel-mounted ADCP (Acoustic Doppler current profiler) transects in combination with marine mammal surveys to collect high-resolution and concurrent hydrodynamic data in relation to pinniped (harbour seals Phoca vitulina, grey seals Halichoerus grypus) at-sea occupancy patterns within an energetic tidal channel (peak current magnitudes >4.5 ms−1). We identified novel ADCP-derived fine-scale hydrodynamic metrics that could have ecological relevance for seals using these habitats. We show that our local acoustic backscattering strength metric (an indicator for macro-turbulence) had the highest influence on seal encounters. During peak flows, pinnipeds avoided the mid-channel characterized by extreme backscatter. At-sea occupancy further corresponded with the increased shear and eddies that are strong relative to the mean flows found at the edges of the channel. Our approach, providing oceanographic context to animal habitat use through combined survey methodologies, enhances environmental management of potential MRE sites. The cost-effective collection of such data and the application of our metrics could streamline the EIA process in the early stages of the consenting process. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X18305181?via%3Di… To get access to the full article, please send an email to: l.lieber(a)qub.ac.uk or request the PDF via ResearchGate. Best, Lilian Dr Lilian Lieber Research Fellow School of Natural and Built Environment Queen's University Marine Laboratory Portaferry 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF Northern Ireland Webpages: Queen's University Marine Research Group<https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/cerc/ResearchGroups/MarineResearchGr…>, Research Gate<https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Lilian_Lieber/contributions>, Google Scholar <https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=4IQLKaQAAAAJ&hl=en> Mobile: +44 (0)7837425855

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New publication: Exploring ship traffic variability off California
by T.J. Moore 06 Sep '18

06 Sep '18

My co-authors and I are happy to note that the following paper has been published: Moore, T.J., Redfern, J.V., Carver, M., Hastings, S., Adams, J.D., and Silber, G.K., 2018. Exploring ship traffic variability off California. *Ocean & Coastal Management* 163: 515-527 (DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2018.03.010). Abstract Seaborne trade continues to grow and is an important component of the global economy. Threats from shipping to marine ecosystems include oil spills and other water pollution, air pollution, anchor scouring, biological invasions, container loss, chronic noise, and collisions between ships and large whales. Shipping and its associated threats can be influenced by a suite of regulations and economic events. The dynamic nature of ship traffic can be characterized using ship tracking data from automatic identification system (AIS) technology. These data enhance our ability to analyze the ecological threats from commercial shipping as a component of spatially explicit risk assessments. We explore ship traffic variability using a case study in waters off California. AIS data from 2008 to 2015 were used to evaluate the role of vessel emission regulations and economic events on vessel routes and speeds. We document vessels navigating around emission control areas (ECAs) or reducing speed when traveling through them. Large freight vessels decreased speeds from 2008 to 2015 by about 3–6 knots in many areas, with lowered speeds observed in areas of both heavy and sparse vessel use. The timing and location of the speed reductions appear to be most influenced by state and international clean fuel standards, which required the use of more costly fuels. Therefore, the speed reductions may have provided a more cost-effective means of travel. We also found temporary speed increases off southern California when vessels used longer routes to avoid traveling through an ECA. We conclude that the establishment of ECAs had a profound influence on vessel routes and speeds, likely due to the higher costs of clean fuels. Proposals have come before the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to establish clean fuel requirements in various locations around the world to reduce air-borne emissions from vessels. Our research suggests such proposals, or other events that may affect marine fuel prices, can have key impacts on vessel behavior. Consequently, it is important to consider this variability when designing strategies to minimize threats from shipping to vulnerable biophysical systems. Keywords Maritime shipping, Automatic identification system, Air pollution regulations, Cetaceans, Slow steaming, Fuel prices A share link is available and provides access to read and download the article in the next 50 days (before October 26, 2018). No sign up, registration or fees are required. The link is: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1Xh2z3RKK-cJM5 Kind regards, T.J. Moore NOAA SWFSC La Jolla, CA thomas.j.moore(a)noaa.gov

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NEAq opening
by Alicia Mendonza 06 Sep '18

06 Sep '18

The New England Aquarium is seeking a Research Assistant, Aerial Observer to participate in our aerial surveys for whales, dolphins and sea turtles in outer continental shelf federal waters off Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This area is currently proposed for offshore alternative energy development. Duties will include serving as an observer on all aerial surveys; quality checking data; coordination with the chief scientist and flight crew; and analysis of vertical photographs for the detection and identification of marine mammal and turtle species. The majority of field work will be aerial, although there may be opportunities to get involved in shipboard surveys with collaborators depending on contract opportunities. This is a grant funded staff position with at least 12 months of staffing provided. Additional service may be afforded only if additional grant funding is secured. *Please note the deadline for applications is Friday, September 14th 2018. Applicants who are available to start in mid-October preferred* SCHEDULE Office schedule will be Monday -- Friday, 9:00 AM -- 5:00 PM. Flight days will require irregular hours and some long days. Occasional weekends and holidays will be required. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Participates in all aerial survey activities, including observer logistics, scientific data collection, monthly reporting, photographic and data analysis, and assistance with monthly reports and final annual report writing as needed. 2. Survey safety equipment and camera maintenance, preparation and in-flight troubleshooting as needed. 3. Follow safe operational requirements for every survey area, maintains flight and data logs, assists data quality checking and assurance, assists summarizing data and reports. 4. Photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identifications, data processing and analysis as needed. 5. Performs other position-related duties, as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Training and Experience 1. A or B.S in Biology or related science, M.S with comparable experience preferred. 2. At least one year of marine mammal aerial survey flight time. 3. Good communication and coordination skills. 4. Handling large databases and performing quality checks. 5. Meeting deadlines for data and report deliverables. 6. Photographic skills and photo-identification experience. 7. Attention to detail for proofing and quality checking data 8. Ability to spend long hours performing photo analysis in the office. 9. Comfortable flying in a small aircraft (Can't get motion sickness) 10. Valid driver's license Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 1. Participation in right whale, other large whale, and turtle aerial research programs. 2. Maintaining and purchasing aerial survey equipment. 3. Familiarity with digital photography equipment and field use. 4. Computer skills, especially excel, access, word. For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/ New England Aquarium is committed to diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.

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New paper on abundance of endangered false killer whales in the main Hawaiian Islands
by Amanda Bradford - NOAA Federal 06 Sep '18

06 Sep '18

Aloha MARMAM community - On behalf of my coauthors, I would like to share our new paper on the abundance of endangered false killer whales in the main Hawaiian Islands: Bradford AL, Baird RW, Mahaffy SD, Gorgone AM, McSweeney DJ, Cullins T, Webster DL, Zerbini AN. 2018. Abundance estimates for management of endangered false killer whales in the main Hawaiian Islands. Endangered Species Research 36:297-313, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00903 The paper is open access and a PDF can be downloaded from the journal's website: <https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v36/p297-313/>. If you have not yet had your morning tea or coffee and are not quite ready for a full discussion of mark-recapture abundance estimation and sampling variability, you can have a look at the paper's abstract (pasted below) or check out the NOAA Fisheries Feature Story on this collaborative effort: < https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/estimating-number-endangered-f… >. ABSTRACT: Effectively using the best available data to meet management mandates for endangered populations is a common conservation challenge. False killer whales *Pseudorca crassidens* occur as 3 distinct populations in Hawaiian waters, including a resident main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) population that is endangered under the US Endangered Species Act. A longitudinal, photo-identification dataset of 171 distinctive individuals and open mark-recapture methods were used to estimate current MHI false killer whale abundance as needed for management of this population. The data are from dedicated and opportunistic surveys conducted from 2000 to 2015 around the MHI and reflect unquantified spatiotemporal biases imposed by necessary sampling constraints. Accounting for temporal variation and especially social group affiliation was important in modeling capture probability. Sensitivity analyses found that the resulting time series of 16 abundance estimates is robust to some forms of sampling variability and bias. However, because the study area was partially sampled each year, the annual abundance estimates apply only to the portion of the population using the sampled area and may underestimate true population abundance. Nonetheless, the resulting estimates and supporting evidence indicate that the MHI false killer whale population is relatively small; for example, only 167 (SE = 23, 95% CI = 128-218) individuals were estimated to have used the sampled area in 2015. Until data are available to estimate or overcome sampling biases, this estimation framework offers a tool for using data that have been regularly collected each year to produce current abundance estimates that are improvements over existing management inputs. Let me know if you have any questions about the paper or any difficulties with the links or PDF. Kind regards, amanda -- [image: Follow-Us-HICEAS-emblem.png] <https://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/hiceas/index.php> <https://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/hiceas/index.php> *Amanda L. Bradford, Ph.D.* Research Ecologist, Cetacean Research Program Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries (808) 725-5714 Mailing address: NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/PSD/Amanda Bradford 1845 Wasp Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818

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